Frequently Asked Questions About Child Support in Tampa
When two parents break up or divorce, one party is typically ordered by the courts to pay child support. Child support is meant to pay for the financial responsibilities associated with raising and caring for a child. Many parents are unaware of how child support is calculated, which parent is awarded child support, what payments are meant to cover, and more. Below, our Tampa child support attorney outlines the most frequently asked questions we hear, and the answers to them.
How is Child Support Calculated in Tampa?
In Tampa, as throughout the rest of Florida, child support follows guidelines as well as an Income Share Model. The model takes into account the income of each parent and what each individual would have spent on the child if they had not separated. The time-sharing schedule, which dictates the amount of time each parent spends with the child, is also factored into the child support calculation, as is the number of children requiring support. Children from a previous relationship are also figured into the calculation.
In the best of cases, parents can agree to a child support amount. As long as the amount of child support falls within the guidelines, the court will likely approve the agreement. However, in certain circumstances, a judge may deviate from the guidelines.
Which Parent is Awarded Child Support?
Either parent can be awarded child support. Generally speaking, the parent who has the majority of time-sharing is granted child support and the non-custodial parent pays it. This is due to the fact that the parent who spends the majority of time with the child will usually spend the most on their care. Still, income is a factor and so this is not always the case.
Is Child Support Owed when Parents have Equal Time-Sharing?
Many people think that when two parents spend an equal amount of time with the child, support is not owed. This is not true. The resources of each parent will still be considered, which takes their income as well as their assets into account. Even when parents have an equal time-sharing agreement, one parent may still owe child support.
What Expenses Does Child Support Cover?
Many people think child support only covers a child’s direct expenses, such as their food and educational costs. This is not true, however. Child support is meant to make sure the child continues to enjoy an acceptable standard of living. This means that in addition to hobbies, medical expenses, and entertainment, child support can also cover a mortgage or rent, utility expenses, and transportation costs. The parent who receives child support is not obligated to provide an itemized list of what child support was used for to the parent paying support.
Our Child Support Attorney in Tampa Can Answer Your Questions
Child support is a very complex issue. It is also a highly emotional one. At Florida Law Advisers, P.A., our Tampa child support attorney can answer your questions and provide the legal representation you need to obtain the fair outcome you deserve. Call us today at 1 (800) 990-7763 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to get more information.
Source:
flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2012/61.30
